Getting To Know... Alex Frew

After introducing himself to the world with his brilliant debut single 'Get Out Alive' earlier this year, Canadian newcomer Alex Frew is back at it once again as he returns with his latest effort 'Antisocial Love Song'.

Taking his cues from the likes Oh Wonder and The 1975, 'Antisocial Love Song' continues that bold and progressive pop sound he has cultivated for himself. With its bright overtones, sweeping production, and sarong vocal performance, this follow-up looks to be one of the first of many astounding releases from the artist to come.

So with the new single available now, we sat down with him to find out more about his background and what has inspired him most over the years.

-

What was the first instrument you fell in love with?

The earliest memory I have of truly falling in love with an instrument is definitely the Fender Stratocaster. Funnily enough, I remember watching the Wiggles on television when I was much younger, and one of the performers would always use a red Stratocaster. From that day on, I’ve been absolutely smitten with the iconic design. So, of course, it was the first guitar I bought when I finally had the wherewithal!

What has been the most prominent inspiration behind your music so far?

If I absolutely had to choose one current inspiration behind my music, I would have to say Justin Vernon of Bon Iver. The way in which he can meld his emotion with current political events and his struggle with spirituality is absolutely awe-inspiring. Individuals like him have completely changed the way I look at music.

What kind of music did you love as a teenager?

Throughout my high school career, and still to this day, I’ve had a soft spot for alternative rock music. From the National to Interpol, I generally gravitate towards music along those lines.

Can you remember the first song that made you want to pursue a life in music?

Strangely enough, the first song I can remember inspiring me to be a musician was Nightswimming by R.E.M. It was the first song that I truly fell in love with, and I’m relatively sure the CD was a mainstay in our minivan’s disc player. This, along with Superman’s Song by Crash Test Dummies, are the main reasons I believe I fell in love with songs in general.

Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?

Recently I’ve been listening to quite a lot of Jimi Hendrix and The Black Keys. I’ve always been a massive fan of Hendrix, learning his riffs and watching old performance videos, but recently his music has been on repeat on my headphones, and I’ve found it unbelievably inspiring for my own songwriting.

How many of your songs have you written about people in your life?

I would say that the majority of songs I’ve written have been about somebody in my life. While I believe there is lots of value in writing songs about hypothetical topics, it is always the songs about people and experiences that you’ve had in your life that end up meaning the most to you personally. In a way, it’s kind of like immortalising your relationships and experiences in notes, which I find incredibly moving.

And what advice would you give to other musicians looking to start a career in music?

Personally, I’m also just starting out into the world of music, but one thing that has been very clear to me working within the industry is that you can’t rest on your laurels. The modern music landscape is so saturated that one really has to try and push boundaries of what you’re used to making and hearing, and to a certain extent, it’s a never-ending journey.

-

Alex Frew's new single 'Antisocial Love Song' is available to stream and download now. Have a listen to it in the player below.